Two days after the tragic news of Liam Payne’s death broke, One Direction founder Simon Cowell shared a moving tribute to the musician and remembered their final encounter
After Liam Payne’s young tragic death, X factor judge Simon Cowell has penned a touching tribute in the singer’s memory and recalled their sweet final encounter together.
Just two days after the 31-year-old musician tragically died after falling from his hotel balcony, Simon Cowell issued a heartfelt statement reflecting on Liam’s life and legacy. Fans everywhere have been waiting to hear Simon’s statement as he has been credited as the genius behind creating the sensational boy band One Direction.
In 2010, Simon formed the band from solo contestants who had failed to progress any further than the bootcamp stage of the UK X Factor. One Direction – which featured singers Liam Payne, Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson, and Niall Horan – quickly became one of the biggest pop bands in the world, and it never would’ve happened if it wasn’t thanks to Simon.
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And as the world grieves the loss of one of the five former band mates, Simon reflects on Liam’s incredible vocal talent and the last he ever saw him. After first meeting over a decade ago, Simon and Liam have kept in touch over the years with the singer recently paying Simon a friendly visit back in 2023.
In his emotional post, Simon recalled: “You came to see me last year. Not for a meeting. Just to sit and talk. And we reminisced about all of the fun times we had together. And how proud you were to be a Dad. After you left, I was reminded that you were still the sweet, kind boy I had met all of those years ago.”
Simon went on to talk about Liam’s seven-year-old son whom he shares with ex-girlfriend Cheryl Cole. The 65-year-old television personality wrote: “I have met your son, Bear. He has your smile and that twinkle in his eye that you have. And he will be so proud of everything you achieved. And how you achieved it.”
He concluded the post mentioning the strong bond One Direction always shared: “I always thought the 5 of you in the band as brothers. And regarding their messages today I believe you were. And now Liam, I can see the effect you had on so many people. Because you left us too soon. Rest in peace my friend. And I am sending my love, thoughts and prayers to your family. Simon X.”
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